finding a retirement home

[Edward Craig]

I am in my early 50's and considering the possibility of buying a small residence for retirement purposes probably somewhere in the southeast. What type of housing to buy is somewhat up in the air--the idea of a condo (all on one floor with little maintenance) is very appealing but the condo fees are not. I have seen Orlando condo properties selling for $24,000 with $450 HOA fees--it seems like the seller is willing to take a loss just to get out from under the monthly condo fees! Are there condos in Florida (or other southern states) with few amenities which translate into low condo fees (in safe areas of town)? Is there a way to look for foreclosed townhouses that are not condos online? Any guidance is appreciated.